Port: Leaders urge William Ruto to prioritise Kilifi residents

Ships docked at the Port of Mombasa. [Kelvin Karani, Standard]

Kilifi residents now want the government to give them priority for port jobs after clearing operations were reverted back to Mombasa by President William Ruto.

The residents claim that most local business people closed shops and went bankrupt after port operations were transferred to the Nairobi and Naivasha Internal Container Depots (ICDs).

Led by John Mwamutsi and businesswoman Ruth Bendera, they were optimistic that the region's economy will be restored and that more job opportunities will be created.

"President William Ruto has kept his word and we want him to ensure that locals are given priority when businesses return to Mombasa. He should also revive our cashew nut industry and tourism," he said.

Mr Mwamutsi also urged Ruto to set aside funds for construction of the 54km Bamba-Kilifi road that stalled moments after it was launched by Transport Cabinet Secretary James Macharia.

He said that the road will open up Ganze sub-county for investments.

Ms Bendera urged Ruto to give priority to locals when the executive order is implemented.

"We know he has a challenge in terms of the huge national debt but we urge him to remain firm since we are behind him. He should also try to clear pending bills," she said.

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